In a move emphasizing continuity and stability, the Malta Refereeing Department has announced that the current roster of FIFA referees will remain unchanged for 2025. Ishmael Barbara (31), Matthew Degabriele (35), Philip Farrugia (36), and Trustin Farrugia Cann (38) will all retain their international badges for another year, while Jo-Anna Vassallo will continue to represent Malta as a FIFA female referee. Additionally, Mark Ciantar has been promoted to the FIFA Assistant Referee list, replacing Alan Camilleri, who has retired after an illustrious 22-year career.
Philip Farrugia stood out during the past year with seven international appointments, including two prestigious matches in the UEFA Nations League. He also officiated in the UEFA Conference League play-offs and group stage, showcasing his growing reputation on the international stage. His steady performance underscores the value of experience within the current panel.
Ishmael Barbara, the youngest of the group, had a particularly busy season, leading all Maltese referees with 15 appointments. These included matches at the Under-19 and Under-21 levels and a debut in the UEFA Conference League. Notably, Barbara was entrusted with officiating in the final tournament of the UEFA Under-19 Championship, a significant milestone that reflects his promising trajectory in European refereeing.
Meanwhile, Jo-Anna Vassallo continues to solidify her role as a trailblazer in women’s refereeing, maintaining her position as Malta’s sole FIFA female referee. Her consistent performances and leadership on the pitch have inspired aspiring female officials.
While the season brought notable achievements for some, it also presented challenges. Matthew Degabriele and Trustin Farrugia Cann had fewer opportunities this year, officiating three and two matches, respectively. Farrugia Cann’s limited international appointments and mixed performances raised questions within the refereeing community. However, the committee’s decision to retain him reflects a vote of confidence in his ability to contribute to the international stage for another year.
Retaining the current FIFA referees means that promising young officials like Alex Johnson and Daniel Portelli will need to wait a little longer for their chance at the international level. Both are highly regarded within local circles, and their progression remains a focal point for the MFA Refereeing Department as part of its long-term development strategy.
The most significant change to the FIFA list comes with the retirement of Alan Camilleri, who steps down after a remarkable 22-year career as a FIFA assistant referee. Having reached the mandatory retirement age of 45, Camilleri leaves behind a legacy of dedication and excellence, earning widespread respect both domestically and internationally. Camilleri has also announced his decision to retire from all refereeing duties in December, marking the end of a truly distinguished chapter in Maltese football.
The decision to maintain the current FIFA panel, along with the inclusion of Mark Ciantar, signals a balanced approach by the Refereeing Department. While there is a clear focus on stability and experience, the department also remains committed to nurturing the next generation of refereeing talent.
